Simon Birch

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LOVE AND INSPIRATION FROM THE MOVIE:

Simon is a 12-year-old dwarf child in a small New England town who is convinced he is destined by God for great heroism. Well and good, but Simon (Ian Michael Smith) gets into trouble like all prophets and disciples do, by not keeping quiet about his faith, to the consternation of everyone who hears his squeaky little voice declare his belief in God’s plans for him, and his contempt for their shallowness. He's not even above interrupting the minister in the middle of the parish announcements, "If God's made the church bake sale a priority, we're in a lot of trouble!" Needless to say, Simon does not win many friends—he's a freak to most children and a bafflement to adults—even his own parents treat him with disdain.

In spite of his difficulties, Simon stays positive. He is humbled and puzzled by the destiny God has for him. He is a loving friend and is especially protective of "little" children (those half his age and twice his size). He's also a normal boy beginning to go girl crazy. This not only leads into side-splitting comic relief, but shows us the greatness of the heart in that tiny body.

Joseph Mazzello (The Cure, Jurassic Park) brilliantly plays Joe Wenteworth, Simon's best friend—a well-mannered, likable child, but also an outcast, known as the town bastard. Joe knows that his father is alive, but his mother refuses to tell him who that is. When Joe’s mother (and Simon’s mother figure) is killed in a freak accident, finding Joe's father becomes a high priority for both boys. Joe and Simon's friendship is one of the most moving childhood friendships on film since Stand by Me. The friends are inseparable, and lean on each other heavily, as they swim, dream, play and cry together. Joe protects Simon, and challenges his convictions. Simon in turn, helps Joe with his anger and pain, and challenges his doubts. - Jon Zuck

All in all, this is a well-made movie with a valuable lesson. "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1. I suggest the reading of Hebrews 11 for a deeper understanding of the faith portrayed through Simon Birch. - Chris